Hi Bold Bakers! WHY YOU’LL LOVE THIS RECIPE: Homemade Crescent rolls are everything a Pillsbury crescent roll wants to be but better! These guys are pillowy, buttery and so easy to make. Definitely a must on your holiday table. Already have an account?
Short ingredient list: You are only 6 ingredients away from this deliciousness. Bakery quality: No need to leave your home to get amazingly fresh baked goods. Make ahead: A great recipe to make in advance so it’s one less thing to make on Thanksgiving day.
After sharing this recipe, I received feedback from some bakers who found that their dough was turning out softer than expected or that the rolls were baking up doughy without those classic flaky layers. So, I went back to the drawing board and retested the recipe three times, adjusting the amount of yogurt by nearly half. The updated version consistently delivers a dough that’s easy to handle and results in buttery, flaky layers every time. The key is to use regular plain yogurt, not Greek, and add just enough to bring the dough together into a soft ball. Follow these steps, and you’ll achieve perfect crescent rolls every time.
Bold Bakers Loved This!
“Excellent recipe! These crescent rolls were very fun and easy to make. I watched Gemma’s video several times before attempting these and they turned out perfectly! ” — Jessica “Wow thank you so much for giving me a blessipe! I’ve been practicing several bread recipes and this one has come out the best by far!” — Evan R. “Turned out amazing! Thank you for the recipe.” –Shara IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 10/17/2024, to include explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, answers to the most frequently asked questions, make-ahead and storage instructions, and Pro Chef Tips. IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 10/23/2024, to include NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make-ahead and storage instructions, answers to the most frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
What Are Crescent Rolls?
Crescent rolls are a hybrid between a dinner roll and a croissant. They are shaped like a croissant but have a more pillowy interior.
Crescent refers to the shape: In French, Croissant means crescent – that’s why these treats are in the shape of the crescent moon! Laminated dough: The crescent roll dough is folded in order to create layers of dough and butter. This is called laminating! No yeast: Homemade crescent rolls are leavened with baking powder so no yeast is involved.
Tools You Need:
Measuring Cups and Spoons Rolling pin Plastic wrap Ruler Pizza cutter or sharp knife Baking sheet Parchment paper Pastry brush
Key Ingredients:
All-purpose flour
Perfect protein content that provides structure but keeps the rolls light.
Baking powder
This is the leavening agent which provides rise and airiness.
Salt
Enhances flavor without making the crescent rolls savory.
Yogurt
The main purpose of using yogurt is to utilize the acid to soften gluten for a softer texture.(P.S. In yeast recipes, yeast needs to work with protein to build a strong gluten network, so acidic liquid is barely used. ) Adds tang and activates the baking powder. Using full-fat plain yogurt is optimal here! It will add more flavor and create a richer dough. Greek yogurt is too thick for this recipe. Substitutes: Sour cream or buttermilk.
Butter
A key ingredient for a flaky interior. Substitute: My very own Homemade Butter
Egg (For egg washing)
Provides a crisp and golden brown exterior.
How To Make Homemade Crescent Rolls
Make the dough:
Roll and shape:
Bake:
Gemma’s Pro Chef Tips For Making Homemade Crescent Rolls
This dough can seem difficult to roll out. If it springs back a bit as you roll it, just let it rest for a few minutes to let the gluten relax, and then try to roll again. Add some flavor! Before you roll the dough into the crescent shape, add some grated parmesan cheese and fresh herbs, crushed garlic and olive oil, pizza sauce, and shredded mozzarella. If you want a sweet treat, try brushing them with melted butter and cinnamon sugar as they come out of the oven! These homemade crescent rolls are best enjoyed the day they are baked.
Make Ahead and Storage Instructions
Make ahead:
Make the dough and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use just shape and bake! Shape the crescent rolls and freeze on a tray until solid, then transfer to a ziploc bag and keep in the freezer for up to 1 month. When a craving hits just egg wash as many as you want and bake. (You will need to increase the baking time about 10 minutes since you are baking from frozen. Alternatively, you can freeze the dough before shaping it. Then when it’s time to bake, take it out to defrost, shape, proof, and bake as directed.
Storage:
Room temperature: Store baked crescent rolls in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days! Freezing: Freeze the baked rolls in an airtight container for up to 4 weeks.
Reheating:
Reheat the baked crescent rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes if at room temperature or 7-10 minutes if frozen
What Yogurt Should I Use?
Any plain yogurt will do but full fat (around 3.5%-4%) is best! Keep in mind that all yogurts are different so you might need more or less than what the recipe calls for. To avoid soggy dough add the yogurt gradually. If you want to impress your guests even further, you can make your own yogurt following my simple Homemade Yogurt Recipe.
Why are my Crescent rolls tough instead of fluffy?
Overworking the dough can lead to tough baked goods. Make sure you are just mixing the dough until it comes together. No need to knead more than a minute.
Why are my rolls not flaky?
Folding the dough is what creates the flaky layers. Don’t skip any folds and let the dough rest in between each one.
Can I reheat them in the microwave?
Reheating the crescent rolls in the microwave will make them soggy. I highly recommend doing this in the oven instead.
Make Bread and Dough!
Crazy Dough: One Bread Recipe with Endless Variations 1-Hour Dinner Rolls Artisanal Whole Wheat Bread
And don’t forget to buy my Bigger Bolder Baking Cookbook! Full (and printable) recipe below! IMPORTANT NOTE: This recipe was improved and updated on 10/23/2024, to include NEW STEP-BY-STEP photography, explanations and substitutes of key ingredients, make-ahead and storage instructions, answers to the most frequently asked questions, and Pro Chef Tips.
